What could be better this November than visiting a National Trust property all decked out for Christmas? The Wessex Guild of Craftsmen is delighted to announce that it is partnering with Uppark House, near Petersfield, to celebrate the festive season with a display and sale of high quality art and crafts at this stunning period property.
Following its theme of ‘A Handmade Christmas’, the rooms of the mansion will be adorned with individually crafted decorations, reflecting the activities and lives of people who once lived above and below stairs at Uppark.
Follow the pretty festoon lights illuminating the approach to the mansion house before stepping into the entrance hall, magnificently decorated using natural materials, such as cinnamon, citrus fruit, pinecones and luscious greenery.
Continue your journey into the saloon, dressed in colourful paper decorations inspired by the sheet music, writing paper and card games enjoyed by past residents.
Down in the servants’ quarters you will find the Wessex Guild members waiting to greet you with their beautiful creations. There will also be trees sparkling with decorations reflecting the professions of the people who lived and worked below stairs, creating the perfect Christmas atmosphere.
Wessex Guild members participating include Sheila Barrow, with her detailed, embroidered pictures inspired by nature, Jo Berryman with her tactile and practical ceramics, Dorothy Borland with her sumptuous and colourful fused glass pieces, Louise Brown with her traditionally-made and useful baskets, Deanna Hilton who makes leather goods in bright colours, Vicki Hunt with her stylish wall art, pictures and finely decorated jewellery, and Wendy Smith with her fresh, contemporary paintings of seascapes, plus smart reversible bags.
If you are looking for unique Christmas gifts and decorations made with love and care by skilled artisans, come along to Uppark House this November and December where you will find a warm welcome and plenty of Christmas cheer.
Uppark House is open on Thursdays to Sundays and the Wessex Guild members will be in residence in the Servants’ Hall on Friday 25, Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 November 2022, then again the following week on Thursday 1, Friday 2, Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 December 2022. Opening hours are 10.30am to 3.30pm each day.
Uppark House is at South Harting, Petersfield, West Sussex GU31 5QR. Find out more about Uppark House here.
